About IEP Conference

    I attended the IEP conference at Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Friday, January 14, 2011. I want to share my four things that happened to me.
    First, I lost my way in the subway station. After I sent my daughter to the daycare, I went to of Don Mills TTC station about 8:50. This is my third time taking TTC since I came Toronto. I saw many exits when I arrived at Union station. So I asked a man who looked like white coller worker, and who was drinking coffee at the station.

    xiuli: excuse me, how do I get to the Convention Centre?
    man: (walking around in station centre) I am not sure, I think from that side(south
            bound). He suggested that I go there indoors by the Skywalk, and that I can see it
            on the left.

    He was a nice man who told me the right way, but it was the wrong entrance. I asked another person again. Finally, I arrived at Convention Centre North Building at about 10:00. I was so tired, but it was just break time. I am lucky. I got a free coffee and cookies.

    Second, I missed my box lunch. I was really enjoyed talking to people at various booths in English. It didn't matter if I couldn't understand everything. I just wantted to practise my English even I forgot time, so that when I finished talking at 1:10pm I couldn't find any box lunches. I was left starving.
 
    Third, I got to see many organizations that provide free services to newcomers, I didn't know before. For instance, Robert Perry is a Business Operations Specialist who works at Job skills. He encouraged me to work at their simulated business company. The company will give me more self-confidence and communication opportunities and Canadian experience. I was very glad hear this, but I think my level of English is not good enough.

    Finally, I got lots of freebies in my bag. I was happy. My bag was very heavy. There were a lot of information, pens, a USB stick, note pads, and business cards.

    The infomation from IEP conference is very useful to newcomers. Some successful persons shared their work experience in Canada. The government provides many free programs for us. We should catch those opportunities to learn more knowledge in Canada, so we can find a good job in the future.